Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel is proud to announce that a recent asbestos-exposure verdict won by the firm has been named one of the top 50 largest wrongful death verdicts of 2023.
The case involved plaintiff John Peckham, who was employed as a temporary worker in the 1960s, tasked with scraping and removing dried window putty at a mill in Connecticut. According to court testimony, the defendants in the case failed to warn Mr. Peckham and other workers that the glazing material contained cancer-causing chrysotile asbestos and asbestos-contaminated talc. Mr. Peckham died in 2020, 18 months after he was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a deadly form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure.
Following a March 2023 trial, a Connecticut jury awarded $20 million in compensatory damages to Mr. Peckham’s widow.
After his mesothelioma diagnosis, Mr. Peckham sought legal representation from Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel, which has developed a national reputation based on its expertise handling asbestos-exposure litigation and other high-stakes disputes.
The Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel trial team included partners Patrick Wigle and Camille Hunt, as well as Sam Iola, who is now with the Dean Omar Branham Shirley law firm. Co-counsel included Chris Meisenkothen of Early, Lucarelli, Sweeney & Meisenkothen.
The Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel team conducted a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mr. Peckham’s exposure. In trial, attorneys presented evidence to demonstrate the negligence of the window putty manufacturer and the supplier of asbestos-contaminated ingredients.
The Top 50 designation by TopVerdict.com researchers underscores the firm’s commitment to representing clients affected by asbestos-related diseases and ability to obtain justice against powerful business interests.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that has been widely used in building materials for its heat-resistant and insulating properties. However, asbestos is also a known carcinogen.
Mesothelioma: A Deadly Disease
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that develops in the mesothelium, a protective tissue that lines the lungs, heart, and abdomen. Exposure to asbestos fibers is the primary cause of mesothelioma.
Why is Mesothelioma So Serious?
Mesothelioma is a particularly aggressive form of cancer that is often difficult to diagnose and treat. Once diagnosed, the prognosis for mesothelioma patients is typically poor.
The jury’s verdict serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating consequences of asbestos exposure and the importance of holding responsible parties accountable for their actions.
How We Help Victims of Asbestos Exposure
Seek justice with the help of our experienced asbestos attorneys. Our asbestos law firm has represented individuals like you affected by asbestos exposure for over 20 years, aggressively fighting the corporate giants responsible for their dangerous products. If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos or suffered from a disease caused by asbestos, like mesothelioma, we can help.